Key facts about Synthroid
What is Synthroid?
Synthroid is the brand name for levothyroxine and is available as an oral tablet.
What dosages is Synthroid available in?
Synthroid is available as a 25 mcg, 50 mcg, 75 mcg, 88 mcg, 100 mcg, 112 mcg, 125 mcg, 137 mcg, 150 mcg, 175 mcg, 200 mcg, and 300 mcg oral tablet.
What is Synthroid used for?
Synthroid is a thyroxine (T4) and is used to treat the following:
- Hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels)
- Thyroid cancer (in combination with radiation and surgery)
How does Synthroid work?
Synthroid is a man-made version of the T4 thyroid hormone made by your thyroid gland. Thyroid hormones have important functions like controlling metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and more. When the amount of hormone is too low, taking thyroid replacement hormones can bring your levels back to normal.
How do I take Synthroid?
Your provider will calculate your dose of Synthroid based on different factors, such as your age, medical condition, and level of thyroid hormone. The typical dose of Synthroid ranges from 13 mcg to 200 mcg taken by mouth once daily on an empty stomach.
Is it safe for me to take Synthroid?
Synthroid is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have uncorrected adrenal insufficiency.
Synthroid Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Synthroid:
- Side effects are rare and are typically related to too much thyroid hormone
Synthroid Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Synthroid. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Heart failure: trouble breathing, weakness, tiredness, swelling in the hands, ankles, and feet
- Heart attack: dizziness, lightheadedness, anxiety, trouble breathing, fast heartbeat, nausea, cold sweat, clammy skin, chest pain or tightness
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Synthroid
The following medications may interact with Synthroid:
- See full prescribing information for drugs that affect thyroid hormone pharmacokinetics and metabolism (e.g., absorption, synthesis, secretion catabolism, protein binding, and target tissue response) and may alter the therapeutic response to Synthroid
Who makes Synthroid?
AbbVie Inc.
Is Synthroid safe in pregnancy?
Pregnancy may require the use of higher doses of Synthroid. You should notify your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking Synthroid.
